It appears that after seven years, Mariah Carey will be wanting someone new for Christmas next year. On Tuesday, Carey’s longtime boyfriend, Bryan Tanaka, confirmed that the two had split on his Instagram.
The 40-year-old Tanaka shared the following statement:
Dear friends and fans,
With mixed emotions, I share this personal update regarding my amicable separation from Mariah Carey after seven extraordinary years together. Our decision to embark on different paths is mutual, and as we navigate these separate journeys, we do so with profound respect and an overwhelming sense of gratitude for the invaluable time we’ve shared. The memories we’ve created and the artistic collaborations are etched in my heart forever.
Mariah’s dedication to her family and her commitment to her craft have inspired us during our shared journey. I want to express my love and appreciation for Mariah and her incredible children, whose warmth and kindness have enriched my life in ways words cannot capture.
During this sensitive time, I kindly ask for your understanding, privacy and respect. The outpouring of love and support from fans has been a beacon of strength, and I am extremely grateful for the encouragement that continues to uplift me. I eagerly anticipate continuing my journey, knowing my passion for inspiration, dance, and the creative arts will resonate in the unfolding chapters.
With #MuchLove and gratitude,
Bryan Tanaka
Fans had noticed that Tanaka had not been present for the majority of Carey’s holiday tour, nor had he joined her and her children in Aspen for Christmas. Carey and Tanaka, a former backup dancer turned choreographer, met professionally in 2006, but did not start dating until 2016 and began dating following Carey’s breakup with former fiancé James Packer. The two reportedly dated on and off for about seven years before announcing their split on Tuesday.
As of Tuesday afternoon, Carey has not made any public comments regarding the breakup.
